Heavy rains of over 100mm expected in many areas

COLOMBO (News 1^st) - The

Meteorology Department

states that the wavy type disturbance in the vicinity of Sri Lanka has intensified into a low-pressure area and likely to develop further. It is located to the south of Sri Lanka and likely to move west-northwestward. Under the influence of the system, showers or thundershowers with cloudy conditions are expected to continue over most parts of the island. Heavy showers or thundershowers associated with a sudden increase in wind speed (up to 70-80kmph) can be expected in Western, Southern, South-Eastern and Eastern sea areas. Strong gusty winds (up to 50-60kmph) can be expected particularly over Northern, North-Central, and North-Western provinces and in Trincomalee, Galle and Matara districts. Fairly strong gusty winds (up to 40-50kmph) are likely elsewhere. Heavy falls (above 100 mm) can be expected at some places particularly in Southern, Uva and Eastern provinces and in Matale and Polonnaruwa districts. Fishermen in the Matara district have refrained from going out to sea due to the showers and strong winds in the area. According to our correspondent in the area, showers were experienced in the Matara district since yesterday (March 11). Showery weather with strong winds was reported at certain areas in the Hambanthota District. Our correspondent stated that although the strong winds have reduced, rain still persists in the area. Showers were reported in Pothuwil, Lahugala, and Siyambalanduwa in the Ampara District since yesterday (March 11) evening. Correspondent stated that the Mahaweli tank is nearing spill level with the increase in the water level of the Hada Oya. If showers continue and the Mahaweli tank reaches spill level there is a risk of floods in Lahugala, Bogahalanda, and Parana Govipola. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8xm1GBDovQ